The painting Nuestra Patrona depicts the patroness of Cuba - Nuestra Se�ora de la Caridad del Cobre - amidst much symbolism and a juxtaposition of contrasts. The tall, royal palm and El Morro castle stand against the background of a tattered Cuban flag, and buildings that bend reminiscent of Dali`s melting clocks. These contrasts depict the natural beauty of the island and its historic landmarks amidst the deterioration and erosion of the last forty-six years. In a way, it`s as if time has stood still, or gone backwards. The virgin herself, though draped in her formal cape and crown, emits a mildly sensual aura (her face, hands, feet). Perhaps this symbolizes our changing society, the sensuality of the island, any number of things. Instead of the child in her left hand, she holds the statue of Christ that stands in Havana Harbor. Her right hand holds a cross, not made out of fancy gold, but of sticks. Her feet are stepping on snakes whose shapes resemble a hammer and sickle. The boatmen beneath her are rafters (balseros) risking mad seas to escape the island. Her face, though not sad, has a tear leaving her left eye. The star that normally adorns the red triangle of the flag has become a dove struggling to free itself. The breaking chains represent hope. The base at the Virgin`s feet is the island of Cuba transformed into a crocodile (its symbol) beginning to awake - again a symbol of hope. In the horizon, beyond El Morro, one sees what appears to be a faint wall or dam. The viewer can interpret the symbolism in any number of ways, such as the repressive atmosphere permeating the island, or the isolation brought about by the embargo.